October 7, 2020

 

Dear members of the School of Music community,

Last night, President Salovey and Provost Strobel sent a letter about the university’s plans for the spring 2021 semester. The School will mirror the university’s spring semester dates for classes, beginning February 1 and ending May 7. Spring break will not be observed in an effort to keep travel to a minimum. In the coming days, you will receive updates and further information about the YSM academic calendar along with additional guidance on academic and performance coursework.

Tomorrow, I will be meeting with the Steering Committee to discuss academic and operational details related to the spring semester. Among our considerations are the continuation of online academic classes, performance activities, in-person lessons, and ongoing safety protocols for facilities use. Decisions made by the Steering Committee and policies related to operations will be communicated in writing and in meetings with students, faculty, and staff in the coming weeks.

I want to thank each of you for your dedication and commitment to keeping our YSM community safe by practicing the risk mitigation principles set forth at the beginning of the fall semester. The working committees we have established will continue to refine our operational policies and procedures as we plan for the remainder of this term and look ahead to the spring semester.

 

Warmest regards,

Robert Blocker
Henry and Lucy Moses Dean of Music